Hancock County, Mississippi, Coroner Jim Faulk told WWL-TV in New Orleans he does not suspect foul play, but the cause of death remains under investigation.

Hancock County Sheriff Ricky Adam told WLOX-TV in Biloxi that Von Kurnatowski was hog hunting over the weekend. Adam said Kurnatowski's weapon discharged as he climbed a ladder to a hunting stand.

Von Kurnatowski drew praise for his support of music education. But he also faced apparent financial troubles. And questions arose in 2018 about his business practices, including ties between the nonprofit Tipitina's Foundation and his private companies.